Electricity Investigation

Throughout our electricity unit third grade scientists have asked thoughtful questions. Mrs. Rizzutto, director of the Needham Science Center came and helped us sort our questions into two groups. Some of the questions were "researchable." That means we could find the answers by asking someone, searching on the internet or searching in a book. The questions we were focusing on were "testable." That means third grade scientists could safely find the answers by using scientific equipment.

Today third grade scientists worked in groups to answer some of those questions. They figured out which materials they needed to use. They described the set up and wrote the directions so that any other scientist would be able to repeat the investigation.

Finally, they gave it a try. Third grade scientists used many different size batteries, different kinds of wire, light bulbs, motors, and switches to answer their questions. Mrs. Rizzutto, Mr. Claus and I were very impressed by the way the children collaborated. They problem solved and asked further questions. Many groups started thinking of new questions based on their original results. They are truly scientists!

Ask your third grader about their electrical investigation. :o)